Real Betis mark Champions League return with comeback win over Lille

Real Betis made a triumphant return to the Champions League group stage, securing a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory away at Lille. It marks the Spanish side's first appearance in the premier European competition since the 2005/06 season.

The hosts took the lead in the 12th minute through Ayase Ueda. However, the teams traded goals before halftime: Marc Bartra equalized for Betis following a Pablo Fornals assist, only for Alexsandro to restore Lille's lead shortly after.

The second half saw a swift turnaround. Bartra netted his second of the night in the 49th minute after connecting with an Isco free-kick. Just four minutes later, Troy Parrott found the net with a precise finish to put Betis ahead.

Lille's task became significantly harder in the 56th minute when Ethan Mbappé was shown a straight red card for unsporting behavior following a VAR review. Despite the man advantage, Betis held firm until the final whistle to secure their first three points of the campaign.